The Ogun Commissioner for Youth and Sport, Mr Afolabi Afuape, has advocated for the engagement of Albinos in sporting activities in the country.
Afuape made the call at the first Ogun National Albinism Day with the theme: “Fighting Scourge of Skin Cancer among Albinos in the State.”
According to him, being an albino does not stop them from participating in any sporting activities of their choice.
He said his ministry was interested in the success of the people irrespective of colour differences and urged any albino who has interest in any sporting activities to visit the ministry for enrolment.
Afuape called on the Federal Government and other major stakeholders in sporting industry to encourage albinos to participate in sporting activities.
“There are so many indoor sporting activities that special people like albino can engage in.
“I assure you that the ministry of sport will immediately enrol as many of you that have interest in sporting activities as the governor has more interest in the success of the people with special needs in the society,” Afuape said.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Babatunde Ipaye noted that the absence of Melanin tissue that protects the skin against harsh sun in their body system only makes albino different from other people.
Ipaye said that was enough to stigmatise them.
Represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr Qudus Yusuf, Ipaye said for good looking skin, albinos should stay away from direct sunlight.
He also advised them to regularly examine their skin and stay away from food substances that could triggers wrinkles.
The State Coordinator, Albino Foundation, Miss Peace Onuiri thanked the state government for the support given to people living with albinism.
Onuiri said the challenges faced by albinos range from fear, memory loss, stigmatisation, harsh climate and inferiority complex.
She called on parents and guardians of children with albinism to show them love, care and support.
Onuiri also called on government at the various levels to formulate policies in favour of the people living with albinism.
Source: NAN
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